Entertainment Picks

By
Sharon Tanenbaum

1 of 8Eric Liebowitz

Watch “Bank of Mom and Dad” on SOAPnet

What happens when the Bank of Mom and Dad won’t bail out its overspending grown-up daughter? In this new reality series based on the hit BBC version, the parents move in with their twentysomething child to devise a get-out-of-debt plan with finance expert (and former co-host of Real Simple. Real Life.) Farnoosh Torabi (shown). (Premieres September 30 at 10 p.m. EDT.)

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2 of 8 Courtesy of Asthmatic Kitty

Listen to “The Breadwinner” by Shannon Stephens

The hauntingly romantic sounds on the Seattle-based singer-songwriter’s second album are the perfect backdrop for a day of relaxation. Her voice evokes Sarah McLachlan as she beckons you take a breather in “Come to My Table.” Also enjoy the mesmerizing “In Summer in the Heat.”

Visit Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York

The Mohonk Mountain House, a 265-room Victorian castle built in 1869 that was reportedly Stephen King’s inspiration for The Shining, is celebrating October with special menu items and spa treatments (like the Pumpkin and Apple Manicure and Pedicure, which includes a green apple foot bath and sugar scrub). Book for Halloween weekend and listen to spooky stories fireside or attend a pumpkin-carving workshop. All-inclusive rates start at $252.

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4 of 8 Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

See “The Informant!”

Matt Damon plumped up to play corporate whistleblower Mark Whitacre in director Steven Soderbergh’s dark comedy based on the nonfiction book of the same name. As the desperate-for-adventure and not entirely truthful Whitacre, he falls into cahoots with the FBI, agreeing to wear a wire to play David to his Fortune 500 company’s Goliath.

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5 of 8 Courtesy of NBC

Tune in to “Saturday Night Live” on NBC

The Emmy Award–winning comedy showcase kicks off its 35th season with first-time host Megan Fox (Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen) and musical guest U2. Dying for more laughs? Look for Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) to host the October 3 show with “Just Dance” singer Lady Gaga. (Premieres September 26 at 11:35 p.m. EDT.)

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6 of 8 Courtesy of Hollywood Records

Listen to “Breathing Under Water” by Marié Digby

Three years ago the pop singer from Los Angeles uploaded homemade videos―one featuring an acoustic version of Rihanna’s “Umbrella”―to YouTube. Fourteen million views later she released an album of danceable pop tunes through a more traditional route. Start with these sing-along songs: “Avalanche” and “Know You By Heart.”

Visit Denver Beer Fest

Now through September 27 you can take part in the first-ever beer extravaganza in Denver―otherwise known as the Napa Valley of Beer. Enjoy special menus at select restaurants and take the Denver Microbrew Tour in the historic LoDo district to learn about all things beer-related. For more activities, check out denver.org.

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8 of 8 Courtesy of Universal Studios

Laugh to “30 Rock: Season 3” on DVD

Nominated for a record-setting 22 Emmys (and winner of five this year), the TV comedy about the workplace antics of series TSG With Tracy Jordan features guest appearances by Salma Hayek, Jennifer Aniston, Clay Aiken, and more. DVD extras include hilarious commentary from stars Tina Fey, Jack McBrayer, and Jane Krakowski. After watching, set your DVR to record the October 15 premiere of season four.